lautanen

Lautanen is the Finnish word for a plate or dish—an item of tableware used for serving and eating food. Most lautaset are flat with a slight rim to hold food and liquids, and they come in various sizes for meals, desserts, and starters. In Finnish households, a lautanen is a standard component of daily dining and is often part of a coordinated tableware set.

The term derives from lauta, meaning board or plank, with the suffix -nen forming a noun that indicates a typical example. Historically, wooden plates were common before the widespread use of ceramic and porcelain wares, a link reflected in the nomenclature.

Modern lautaset are made from ceramic or porcelain, but they may also be crafted from glass, metal, stoneware, or durable plastics. Designs range from plain and utilitarian to decorative and patterned, with finishes such as glaze, speckling, or matte surfaces. The choice of material and design often reflects both practical needs and aesthetic preferences.

There are several common sizes and purposes for lautaset, including dinner plates, dessert plates, and bread or starter plates. A typical dinner plate is around 21–26 centimeters in diameter, though sizes vary by region, brand, and era. Sets may include complementary pieces such as bowls and saucers to form a complete place setting.

Culturally, lautaset are an everyday object in Finland, used in homes, restaurants, and institutions. Care and maintenance depend on material: everyday ceramic plates are usually dishwasher-safe, while delicate porcelain may require gentler handling or hand washing to preserve finish.